11 must-visit locations for Game of Thrones fans in Northern Ireland

Steven Chisholm

It’s easy to take your surroundings for granted when you see them every day, but when TV producers were searching for locations for hit series Game of Thrones, Northern Ireland captured their imaginations as the perfect place to transform into George RR Martin’s fantasy land of Westeros.

Have you taken a walk down the King’s Road, posed for selfies at Storm’s End or hurled stones into the ocean at Dragonstone? Here’s our guide to 11 must-see Game of Thrones locations in Northern Ireland:

Game of Thrones film locations

Downhill Beach

Downhill Beach in Co. Londonderry was transformed into Dragonstone, home of Stannis Baratheon. The 11km stretch of sand is home to Mussenden - a small temple perched on a clifftop, high above the ocean. Cars are permitted on the beach year round. If you’re planning to visit, key BT51 43P into the satnav for the temple.

Larrybane

Larrybane headland was the picturesque spot used for would-be king Renly Baratheon’s camp in season 2. On the North Coast, close to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, the large caves once sheltered boat builders. BT54 6LS will take you to the rope bridge at Carrick-a-Rede.

Ballintoy Harbour

Ballintoy Harbour in Co. Antrim doubled for Pyke, in the unforgiving Iron Islands and home of the Greyjoys. The small fishing harbour in the village of Ballintoy is five miles west of Ballycastle. Use the postcode BT54 6NA.

Murlough Bay

In North East Co. Antrim, Murlough Bay was used to shoot scenes at Storm’s End, seat of House Baratheon. It has also been used for scenes on the Iron Islands. To get to Murlough National Nature Reserve, use the postcode BT33 0NQ.

Cushendun Caves

Cushendun Caves, Co. Antrim is where Melisandre gives birth to a terrifying shadow in front of Ser Davos Seaworth. Formed over millions of years, they can be found next to Cave House BT44 0PN.

The beautiful avenue of beech trees at Dark Hedges, County Antrim doubles as the King’s Road - the very spine of Westeros. Put BT53 8TP into your satnav to find this iconic location.

Castle Ward

Castle Ward in Co. Down should be recognisable to GoT fans as Winterfell - seat of House Stark. Overlooking Strangford Lough, the spectacular house is surrounded by stunning woodland. Here you can even immerse yourself in Game of Thrones lore and take part in the Game of Thrones tour and Archery Experience. BT30 7LS in the satnav.

Audley’s Field

Audley’s Field, at Strangford Lough became Robb Stark’s camp in season 2 as Westeros erupts into open warfare. Visit the spectacular castle ruin, complete with its own artificial lake at BT30 7LP.

River Quoile

The River Quoile in Co. Down represents Riverrun, where Catelyn Stark must bargain with the Freys to cross the Trident. Visit the Quoile countryside centre and nature reserve at BT30 7JB.

Tollymore Forest

Tollymore Forest Park, Co. Down is used for a number of forest scenes - notably where the Starks find the direwolf pups. Take a wander round the forest and see if you can spot anywhere familiar. The postcode BT31 9BU will see you there..

Pollnagollum Cave

Pollnagollum Cave, Co. Fermanagh is the hideout of Beric Dondarrion, Lord of Blackhaven in season 3. Part of the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark, you can walk the Pollnagollum Cave walk through Belmore Forest. From Enniskillen, follow the A46 Shore Road to Belleek. Take the left fork onto the B81 Derrygonnelly road and take the first road signed for Boho on the left. Continue along this road for approximately 4 miles, passing Boho Community Centre on the way before turning left at the sign for Belmore Forest. Continue up the forestry road, arriving at a small car park situated on your right.